Shadow of the Giants Trail

The Shadow of the Giants National Recreation Trail is a one-mile self-guided interpretive trail through the heart of Nelder Grove. Interpretative signs along the way discuss "The Majestic Giant Sequoia and its Forest Neighbors" as you meander along the banks of Nelder Creek. The Shadow of the Giants Trail was originally constructed in 1965, and was established as a National Recreation Trail by the Chief of the U.S. Forest Service in December of 1978. Take Hwy 41 north from Fresno; continue thru Oakhurst to Sky Ranch Road (6S10 or Forest Road 10) travel approx. 5 miles to Nelder Grove, when you reach the camp area take the first left (small road) and wind down the road until you reach the Shadow of the Giants trailhead. This is a fantastic short hike which can be done in about 30 minutes (5 year old pace) or faster with adults. In addition, this is a great first hike to incorporate with the Fresno Dome hike. This is an annual hike and in 4 years have only seen one other group on the trail. It is a great hike for older folks or people with kids, since there is only a couple of short uphill sections on the trail. What’s great about this trail is how intimate you can become with the Sequoia's which is something you simply can't do in the parks. You first encounter a beautiful tree with interpretive signs and then move onto several other Sequoia's and finally a dead, still standing tree completing the life cycle in front of your eyes. It's difficult to grasp just how long these trees have stood in this valley and as you think about the history they have seen it is quite humbling to be in their presence. There is a small picnic (Senic Splendor) area across the road from the trailhead that gives you a chance to reflect and plan your next accomplishment as you move on through the Sierra's.